I originally had my first pump put in Oct. 2001. Had trouble retaining fluid, so morphine was changed to dilauded. That pump started dying in 2008, it was changed to another type with larger resevoir, (newer technology) and put in October 2008.

Started having withdrawl symptoms in Febuary 2009, although I didnt know it was with withdrawl for several months. The catheter had pulled out of the port on the pump, not in my back. The dialuded kept releasing into the space under my skin. Until the catheter emptied and pressure was greater in my back. I then began leaking spinal fluid out from into the area where end of the catheter  ended, into my side. Headaches started being unbearable.

On a refill the physician noticed fluid in my side and difficulty filling. The pain in my side became so painful I had a CT when it was noticed the catheter was not attached. Two days later I was in surgery (Jan 29 2010) to attach the catheter and check everything. When I awake I learned that the pump had to be changed. The physcian noticed the pump was actually bent. I have pictures if interested. No one can explain why, but it caused the oump to malfunction. My opinion is it was sticking out from my side and when I bent over it popped like a tin can, eventually bending it. The pump is still being tested by medtronic.

I scuba dive, but not below the 33 feet they suggest. The last three dives were in a pool at 18 feet and a local lake that is 17 feet.

Has anyone had any similar problems? Also the medtronic rep is really not sure what happens to the pump at depth greater than 33 feet. It has been my experience with the first pump that it cuts off, then when I ascend to surface it comes back on.

I am in need of answers or suggestions. Haven't read all posts yet, just learned about this site. I inquired with an attorney about equipment malfunctions, the pumps cost $42,000. During my transition in not knowing I was in w/d it cost me a great deal of money in co pays and prescriptions. 

Thanks Larry